When attempting to run a PHP file on Windows server 2012 and IIS, I keep getting a 500 error. I cannot find any detailed logs or anything. However, when going to PHP Manager for IIS and click check config, I get the following error:

I installed PHP using Microsoft Web Platform Installer 5.0 on a fresh install of Windows Server.

I am new to IIS coming from Linux. So I am not "learned" enough in IIS to know what's going on. I have tried updating C++ redistributable 2012 update 4 as a couple websites suggest. Anybody have any other ideas?

EDIT: Another thing I checked was memory limit. One site suggested my memory limit needed to be upped. No change.

EDIT: Question: Does Windows have to be rebooted for PHP changes to take effect?

You was correct. I already did the x64 since it was a 64 bit machine. Installed the x86 and instantly (no reboot required) it started working. Thanks! I racked my brain for hours!
– alexander7567Jul 20 '14 at 13:04

Brilliant! Fixed it immediately for me as well. +1
– Will ApplebyMar 25 '15 at 23:21

I installed the VC++ 11 runtime but I also had to install CGI support to get it working. On Windows 8.1 and IIS 8.5. Find it under Turn windows features on or off > Internet information services > application development features > CGI
– jxmallettJul 4 '15 at 3:42